Minnesota National Bank News and Informationhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/RSS feeds for 60http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/359630/Lunch-and-Learn-with-Barry-Kirchoff#Comments0Lunch and Learn with Barry Kirchoffhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/359630/Lunch-and-Learn-with-Barry-Kirchoff<p dir="ltr"><span style="line-height: 23.2000007629395px;">Minnesota National Bank in Sauk Centre recently teamed up with the Sauk Centre Chamber of Commerce and St. Cloud State University’s Barry Kirchoff for a “Lunch and Learn” seminar. The goal was to bring an educational session to small business owners and employees at ElmerZ in Sauk Centre.</span></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span>An article featured in the Sauk Centre Herald reported about a dozen people in attendance of the event to hear Kirchoff speak. Barry is the director of St. Cloud State’s Small Business Development Center. In his role, he supervises the work done in the center on behalf of businesses in the central Minnesota area. </span></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span>During his speech, Kirchoff </span><span>repeated a line he often hears in in small business:</span><span> “I don’t do finance, my accountant deals with that.” Kirchoff say those words are, “the famous last words of a small business owner. They need to understand questions they should be asking their accountant. You often have to see your business through the eyes of a banker.”</span></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span>According to the article in the Sauk Centre Herald, there are Small Business Development Centers in all 50 states. Minnesota was the 16th state to adopt this type of program, with St. Cloud State being the state’s first. “</span><span>We're considered part of the University outreach,” Kirchoff said. “We're here to help small businesses, whether you want to start one or expand one. We provide confidential one-on-one backing.” </span></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span>Throughout the presentation, Barry explained the way the Small Business Center is operated and how they work as a team to get tasks completed. He says that not everyone has the right answer, so they employ a diverse group of people. </span></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span>Kirchoff gave the listeners a list of reasons why small business collapse. Included in the list are divorce, 50/50 partnership, destructive hobbies, overuse of credit cards, and embezzlement. </span><span>“Those are red flags for any business owner. Other factors become red flags for bankers, like the business doesn't make any money, financial statements are infrequent or inaccurate, a loan request is hurried, inadequate coverage of debt service (and) starting a business with no previous experience or a significant management change,” he added. </span></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span>To end his presentation, Barry explained how businesses are having to adapt with the changing times and technology. The original article shares that he used banking as an example. He said,</span><span> “Even if you're a small business, you have to look like a 'big business' online. For example, go to any college campus. Often college students don't have a bank and haven't stepped inside a bank in years. Today we see small community banks responding by putting more and more services online and available on mobile devices.”</span></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span>Kirchoff claims that it is a great time to be a small business. Trends show that smaller is now better, and there is going to be real growth in small business. </span></p>
<span id="docs-internal-guid-0dfa8b36-a15f-03bb-70c5-5a70d773e165"><br><span>For access to the full article, click </span><a href="http://www.saukherald.com/"><span>here</span></a></span>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/359630/Lunch-and-Learn-with-Barry-Kirchoff&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanWed, 31 Dec 2014 17:23:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:359630http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/358637/Supporting-Local-Businesses#Comments0Supporting Local Businesseshttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/358637/Supporting-Local-Businesses<p dir="ltr">When it comes to giving this holiday season, remember that purchasing a gift or service from your local small business will not only impact the person receiving the gift, but the business owner, and local community, as well. This Saturday, November 29, is<a href="https://www.americanexpress.com/us/content/small-business/shop-small/about/"> Small Business Saturday!</a> It is important to get out and show your support to the businesses in our area.</p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><img id="img-1417044861791" src="https://lh5.googleusercontent.com/rp-xKdIsV3P0oj49_fRilBzpqfZtQuAQK8XjcVHn_yOxZYC0OYZJc6ASgE33r-vaJ5V1OO3OnRQ0myi9KmUEalemSKv9TNG5KpUcxZF_3AZ1hvlyTRM7URUwLbNaj59a8w" alt="2014_SBS.png" width="474px;" height="295px;"></span></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></span><span>While many large chain stores have hundreds of employees, and gross millions of dollars per year, small business owners dedicate their own time and hard work into creating an enjoyable atmosphere for their customers. When you think of the amount of small businesses that surround us every day, it is impressive what owners have to do not only to start their business, but to stay alive after they do so.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span></span><span><img id="img-1417044896517" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/LBFYzb4rY1I3XmN0T5MpengjjG9R5eYAqP7drZq5__-VreoS0jWCjp2QLh10pfm43IYoVsqSbt-ceY4BOyw6UkZyaK3SQT0MeCcR-m4ySD3UG8F7Dn52bMYCXkMGckw3mw" alt="6157598602_26a4afc40a_z.jpg" width="401px;" height="266px;"></span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></span><span>If each person spent $100 at a local business this holiday season, instead of at a chain store, it would put nearly $3 million back into our economy, and create thousands more jobs per year. When you support a local business, it gives them the means to give back more in our community. Non-profit organizations are likely to receive nearly 250% more support from local businesses than large corporations each year. </span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></span><span>There are lots of other </span><a href="http://sustainableconnections.org/thinklocal/why"><span>benefits to shopping locally</span></a><span>. Keeping your town unique and personable, having a local sports team, and reducing environmental impact are just some of the examples.</span></p>
<p dir="ltr"><span><img id="img-1417044868347" src="https://lh4.googleusercontent.com/_Yj_E1SwJwezN7cn-yV-y4b8zvvZsfs46tplpefleIYI-f5ykOM2lRxf91dsav0Z3ly2YjOPr9lAWRWVDGa96BBgzwtinXJKn0Oko6T7PTWq0r_eZB0iG64kDWp4eRbxug" alt="1924493_705777132775944_540042196_n.jpg" width="193px;" height="257px;"></span></p>
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<p dir="ltr"><span><span class="Apple-tab-span"> </span></span><span>While you are out shopping this holiday season, make sure to keep in mind that how you spend your money can impact the way that your community operates and excels. Look around for us at </span><a href="http://www.mn-bank.com/"><span>Minnesota National Bank</span></a><span>, supporting our local businesses this Saturday and the rest of the holiday season!</span></p>
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<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/358637/Supporting-Local-Businesses&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanWed, 26 Nov 2014 23:33:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:358637http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/337985/Community-Fuels-Cash-Mob#Comments0Community Fuels Cash Mobhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/337985/Community-Fuels-Cash-Mob<p>“Small business or big business, business is about people and people are about community.” ~Unknown</p>
<p>Every business helps support various aspects of a community. From jobs and money, to volunteering at local events and projects. It’s the businesses that are active in the community that reap the real rewards of business and enhance the lives of local community members.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>To increase community involvement between businesses and customers, we have taken part in Shop Small, Small Business Saturday, and CASH MOB! All three support local community development by promoting the growth of the neighborhood’s businesses. &nbsp;The newest of the bunch is what we are focusing on today…CASH MOB!</p>
<p><img id="img-1393885683173" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/y--website images-cash mob.jpg" border="0" alt="Minnesota National Bank Fuels Community Growth Through the Power of Cash Mobs" width="480" height="188"></p>
<p>A cash mob involves an organized group going to a local business and spending money there. Minnesota National Bank will be cash mobbing local businesses in Pelican Rapids, Sauk Centre and Long Prairie all year long. We will give each of our employees $10 to spend at the local business we are cash mobbing. This will be a surprise to the businesses… we will be posting photos of our cash mobs on Facebook so stay tuned!</p>
<p>The overall goal of a cash mob is to support the local community. Local (non-national) businesses are 65% more likely to reinvest their money earned into their local community, and they invest nearly 4 TIMES the amount of national companies. If Americans&nbsp;in the average city shifted ONLY 10% of their spending to local businesses it would bring nearly $235 MILLION DOLLARS to that community. So when you shop local it’s helping you, your neighbor, and your community!</p>
<p>Check out some photos of a recent cash mob at <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Meads-Department-Store/166966673360983" rel="nofollow" title="MEADS Department Store" target="_blank">MEADS Department Store</a> of Sauk Centre, Minnesota, <a href="https://www.facebook.com/pages/Ace-Hardware/152026784813747" rel="nofollow" title="ACE HARDWARE" target="_blank">ACE HARDWARE</a> of Long Prairie, Minnesota, and&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/TaqueriaEscobar" rel="nofollow" title="TAQUERIA ESCOBAR" target="_blank">TAQUERIA ESCOBAR</a> of Pelican Rapids, Minnesota on our <a href="https://www.facebook.com/media/set/?set=a.705777099442614.1073741831.362198190467175&amp;type=3" title="Facebook page" target="_self">Facebook page</a> and stay tuned for more mobs!&nbsp;</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/337985/Community-Fuels-Cash-Mob&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanMon, 03 Mar 2014 19:57:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:337985http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/336653/The-Importance-of-Buying-Local#Comments0The Importance of Buying Localhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/336653/The-Importance-of-Buying-Local<p class="normal">&nbsp;</p>
<p class="normal"><img class="alignLeft" id="img-1392840882292" style="float: left;" alt="eat drink buy local chicago 285x300" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/eat-drink-buy-local-chicago-285x300.png" border="0"></p>
<p class="normal">Sometimes it's easy to overlook local establishments when spending money to get the necessities we need. This is especially easy today because big brand stores are becoming more and more prevalent and are driving local stores and companies out of business. It is important to buy local for many reasons and keep the money in your community.</p>
<p class="normal">There are many reasons you should be buying local. For starters, buying local helps to support yourself and keeps the money in the community. When you buy local, the money that you are spending is not going to a large company that has its headquarters in another state, or county. Instead the money stays in your town and more than likely is used to help out other business’ and organizations in the community. Did you know that non-profit organizations receive more than 250% greater support from small business owners than large corporations?</p>
<p class="normal">Every community has a few local establishments that are unique. These are the sort of places that people love to go because they are one of a kind. When you support these types of businesses you're making a direct impact to help keep that establishment in your community. You also can help protect the environment by shopping local. When you shop local you help save on shipping and transportation fees as well as less congestion and pollution.</p>
<p class="normal">We bet you didn’t know that small local businesses are the largest employer nationally and create the highest number of jobs across the country! The best part about that is you will get better service at a locally owned business than you will at a large corporation. Small business owners take the time to get to know their customers and develop strong bonds with the people that support them. You won’t get this at a big business, which is really only interested in your money.</p>
<p class="normal">Every time you buy local you are directly making a positive impact on your community and its economy. Local businesses are owned by people in the community. This means that they are directly invested in your community and its future and are highly unlikely to leave. Not only are they invested in the future of the community but they also require much less money on investments in infrastructure and are more efficient on the use of public services. Small businesses also have the ability to bring in products that their community needs, rather than be based around the needs of a large company and a broad demographic.</p>
<p class="normal">Buying local is an easy way to support your community and helps keep money in its economy. When you shop local you not only help that store, but every person and business that helps supply that business. A small business will base itself around you and the owners will make connections with clientele to give you a very personalized experience.&nbsp;</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/336653/The-Importance-of-Buying-Local&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanWed, 19 Feb 2014 20:11:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:336653http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/331905/5-tips-to-Grow-Your-Company#Comments05 tips to Grow Your Companyhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/331905/5-tips-to-Grow-Your-Company<p><img id="img-1389631805977" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/tree-growing-out-of-money.jpg" border="0" alt="tree growing out of money" class="alignCenter" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
<p>Start-up companies all want to do the same thing: to grow and be successful. But it is easy to get caught up in small details, when in reality it is necessary to focus on the big picture.&nbsp; What exactly do we need to get done, and how must we do it in order to gain customers and grow?&nbsp; Here are five tips that can help aid in the growth process:</p>
<ol>
<li><strong>Pick and choose your battles:</strong>&nbsp; do not get wrapped up for a week deciding on little things, such as the theme colors for your company’s next advertisement.&nbsp; There are more important things to obsess over, such as gaining customers and making money (which you already knew).&nbsp; Remember what the big picture is and have your team remained focused.</li>
<li><strong>Remember passion and commitment:</strong>&nbsp;These traits must be in every employers’ mind in order to get your business to the other side and grow!&nbsp; Without passion and commitment, your customers, team, advisors, and investors will notice.</li>
<li><strong>Create a sense of urgency:</strong> it is necessary to set specific timelines for action and achievements.&nbsp; What are your overall short-term, mid-term, and long-term goals and how are you going to get there?&nbsp; Being an entrepreneur is a marathon, yes, but there are also a significant number of sprints through the process.&nbsp; Be crucial to your deadlines.</li>
<li><strong>There is no “I” in start-up:</strong>&nbsp;We understand as an entrepreneur, you desire to take the bull by the horns and have a set vision for how you want to develop the company.&nbsp; But it is necessary to divide projects and use your team’s ideas.&nbsp; Ask for your team to be creative and come up with new, exciting ways to grow your business.&nbsp; You never know what they might come up with that you did not think about before!</li>
<li><strong>Celebrate achievements:</strong> when one of your team members is exceeding expectations, or a milestone occurs, award yourself and your team! By celebrating these achievements, a new sense of motivation will occur and it will drive energy into your team.</li>
</ol>
<p>At Minnesota National Bank, we know it is a lot of work to grow your company from start up to a mid-sized company. Don't hestaite to contact us for your business financing needs, we are here to help!</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/331905/5-tips-to-Grow-Your-Company&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanMon, 13 Jan 2014 16:48:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:331905http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/328492/The-Holidays-at-Minnesota-National-Bank#Comments0The Holidays at Minnesota National Bankhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/328492/The-Holidays-at-Minnesota-National-Bank<p>At Minnesota National Bank, we pride ourselves on getting to know each and every one of our customers. You’ll never feel like a stranger when you walk into Minnesota National Bank. We feel that building a strong relationship with the community is of utmost importance. To help get our local communities into the holiday spirit we participate in a number of local events. &nbsp;<span style="text-decoration: line-through;"></span></p>
<p><span style="text-decoration: line-through;">&nbsp;</span></p>
<p>Last month, Minnesota National Bank participated in the Long Prairie Kick off Parade. We enjoyed seeing everyone’s smiling faces as we drove by in a pick-up truck with a giant snowman attached!</p>
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<p>During December we always have holiday decorations up. At our Pelican Rapids location, we even have a lit tree outside! If you’re in the neighborhood this holiday season, be sure to stop by our locations and check them out!</p>
<p>&nbsp;<img id="img-1386792453138" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/sauk centre-resized-600.png" border="0" alt="describe the image"></p>
<p>Although parades and holiday décor both get people into the holiday spirit, we believe giving back to the community is even more important. Sauk Centre’s “Sharing Tree” and Long Prairie’s “Caring Tree” have lists of gifts that people can buy for local families in need. This is just a small way that we get the community together to help those in need. Our Sauk Centre location also participated in Christmas for Seniors through Alternative Senior Care. This program allows people to donate to seniors who might not have loved ones around during the holiday season.</p>
<p>&nbsp;<img id="img-1386792469954" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/pelican-rapids-resized-600.png" border="0" alt="describe the image"></p>
<p>To thank all of our customers during the holiday season, each location puts on a holiday open house. Our open houses include cookies, hot apple cider, and coffee! This year the Pelican Rapids location had Santa come and visit. <a href="http://on.fb.me/1iLhIAG" title="Long Prairie’s Open House scheduled for Friday, will have sleigh rides with Santa’s reindeer!" target="_self">Long Prairie’s Open House scheduled for Friday, will have sleigh rides with Santa’s reindeer!</a> And if you want to win some door prizes, make sure you stop by <a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/763735343641960/" title="Sauk Centre’s Open House!" target="_self">Sauk Centre’s Open House!</a></p>
<p><img src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/lp-resized-600.png" border="0" alt="describe the image">&nbsp;</p>
<p>It’s our privilege to give back to our community, especially since so many people support our business every day. Our strong communities are what keep us going and we couldn’t be happier to be a part of them! We hope everyone has a wonderful holiday season.</p>
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<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/328492/The-Holidays-at-Minnesota-National-Bank&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanWed, 11 Dec 2013 20:06:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:328492http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/326162/Stache-For-Cash#Comments0Stache For Cashhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/326162/Stache-For-Cash<p><strong>Happy Movember!</strong></p>
<p><img id="img-1385135754435" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/Stache for cash WEEK 3.jpg" border="0" alt="Stache for cash WEEK 3" width="462" height="357"></p>
<p>At Minnesota National Bank, nothing is more important to us than giving back to the community. That’s why this month we are going to be giving away $100 dollars to one lucky charity. But we need your help! Each week in November we have been posting a photo of six Minnesota National Bank’s employees’ mustaches. Each week you can vote for your favorite mustache by commenting on that post. Whoever gets the most votes at the end of November will win and their selected charity will receive $100 from Minnesota National Bank!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Here is the list of charities:</p>
<p>Mike = St. Paul Church, Sauk Centre Elevator Fund</p>
<p>Allan= Prostate Cancer Foundation</p>
<p>Rick= Camphill Village of Minnesota</p>
<p>Ryan= Wounded Warrior Project</p>
<p>Eric= Pelican Rapids Food Shelf</p>
<p>Donald= Holy Family School Sauk Centre</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>So what are you waiting for? <a href="https://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaNationalBank" title="Vote for your favorite charity/mustache here." target="_self">Vote for your favorite charity/mustache here.</a></p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/326162/Stache-For-Cash&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanFri, 22 Nov 2013 15:56:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:326162http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/322038/Business-Banking-We-want-to-help-your-business-grow#Comments0Business Banking- We want to help your business grow!http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/322038/Business-Banking-We-want-to-help-your-business-grow<p>Business banking is very important and something we focus on at Minnesota National Bank. We think it is extremely important to support startup businesses because we have been there! We specifically enjoy working with small, local businesses in our communities. It strengthens our economy and creates healthy, long lasting relationships amongst businesses.</p>
<p><img id="img-1382628635257" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/businesspeople6.jpg" border="0" alt="businesspeople6" width="323" height="214"></p>
<p>Working with small businesses we have been able to learn what works and what doesn’t. Here are our top tips for small business banking: <span style="text-decoration: line-through;"></span></p>
<ul>
<li>Focus on the “5 Cs” of credit- character, cash flow, capital, conditions, and collateral.</li>
<li>Know that relationships are very important, no matter what aspect, but especially with your bank</li>
<li>Open a <b>separate</b> banking account for your business</li>
<li>Reinvest in your business as you gain profits</li>
</ul>
<div><br><img id="img-1382628730389" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/Growing-Business.jpg" border="0" alt="describe the image" width="341" height="245"></div>
<p>We are here to help whether it’s a new business venture or a well-established business! We will utilize our expertise to give you the best results and service possible. We have years of experience working with different businesses and all of that experience adds up!</p>
<p>We have three major business banking options-</p>
<ol>
<li>Business checking- high volume business, business interest reward, business relationship, small business interest, and free small business checking accounts are available.</li>
<li>Agricultural lending- agriculture and farm real estate, farm lines of credit, Ag term/equipment loans, and agriculture and farm construction financing.</li>
<li>Business lending- commercial real estate, business lines of credit, business term loans, and commercial construction financing.&nbsp;</li>
</ol>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/322038/Business-Banking-We-want-to-help-your-business-grow&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanThu, 24 Oct 2013 19:46:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:322038http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/316953/Pigskin-Prediction-Win-Two-Vikings-Tickets#Comments0Pigskin Prediction: Win Two Vikings Ticketshttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/316953/Pigskin-Prediction-Win-Two-Vikings-Tickets<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img id="img-1379943416710" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/MNNB-Vikings-Cover-photosblog.png" border="0" alt="MNNB Vikings Cover photosblog" width="561" height="207"></p>
<p><strong>The Prize:</strong></p>
<p><strong></strong>To thank our customers, we are giving away two Vikings tickets to the final home game of the regular season! Not only is this game the final home game of the season, it is also the final game EVER at the Metrodome!</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><strong>How To Enter:</strong></p>
<p>To receive entries you must give us your pigskin prediction by commenting (<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaNationalBank" title="on Facebook" target="_self">on Facebook</a>) with the winning team and their exact score. For the next 8 Vikings games you will have additional chances to “comment us” your prediction! This week’s game is the Vikings vs. Steelers! &nbsp;All pigskin predictions must be in before kickoff!</p>
<p><img id="img-1379943595970" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/vikings2bblog.png" border="0" alt="vikings2bblog" width="564" height="564"></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Again, we would like to thank our customers for all of their continued support and we are happy to help our customers with all of their banking needs!</p>
<p>Enter our contest on Facebook:&nbsp;<a href="https://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaNationalBank">https://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaNationalBank</a></p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/316953/Pigskin-Prediction-Win-Two-Vikings-Tickets&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanMon, 23 Sep 2013 13:31:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:316953http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/311482/Student-Checking-Account-Promotion#Comments0Student Checking Account Promotionhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/311482/Student-Checking-Account-Promotion<p><img id="img-1377265783207" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/Screen Shot 2013-08-23 at 8.48.58 AM.png" border="0" alt="Screen Shot 2013 08 23 at 8.48.58 AM" class="alignCenter" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
<p>Dear Students, &nbsp;</p>
<p>It’s time for another school year. The staff at Minnesota National Bank wants to commend you on all of your hard work and wish you luck in the coming school year! &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p>There are lots of things to do in preparation for life after high school, especially when it comes to your finances. Building a trustworthy relationship with your bank will benefit you now and in the years to come. Even if you’re planning on moving away, banking with people you know and can count on will definitely make your life easier.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img id="img-1377264857101" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/screen shot 2013-08-23 at 8.33.31 am.png" border="0" alt="Screen Shot 2013 08 23 at 8.33.31 AM" class="alignCenter" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
<p>This is going on now through August 31, 2013.</p>
<p>&nbsp;Here’s how it works:</p>
<ul>
<li>Please bring this letter with you when you open your account.</li>
<li><b>If you open a checking account, apply for a debit card and sign up for e-statements, we will…</b></li>
</ul>
<p align="center"><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">Deposit $5.00 a month into your account </span></b></p>
<p align="center"><b><span style="text-decoration: underline;">EVERY MONTH until the end of 2013.</span></b>&nbsp;</p>
<p align="center"><b>(Provided the account is open and in good standing).</b></p>
<p>&nbsp;Benefits of our Totally Free Checking Account include:</p>
<ul>
<li>No minimum balance requirements (Upon opening the account a $25 minimum is required)</li>
<li>No service charges</li>
<li>FREE ATM transactions at participating In-Balance ATMs and Money Pass ATMs (Access to thousands of surcharge free ATMs and a smartphone locator app for your convenience!)</li>
<li>FREE first order of checks</li>
<li>FREE Internet Banking&nbsp;</li>
</ul>
<div>We are ready to help you start your financial future. Don’t miss out! This offer will expire August 31, 2013. Open your account today!&nbsp;***See Us for Complete Details***
<p><a href="https://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaNationalBank" title="&quot;Like&quot; us on Facebook." target="_self">"Like" us on Facebook.</a></p>
<p><a href="https://twitter.com/MNNationalBank" title="&quot;Follow&quot; us on Twitter.&nbsp;" target="_self">"Follow" us on Twitter.&nbsp;</a></p>
<p><b>We look forward to meeting you.&nbsp;&nbsp;</b></p>
<p>Sincerely,</p>
<p>Minnesota National Bank Personal Bankers&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp; &nbsp;&nbsp;</p>
<p><img src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/Screen Shot 2013-08-23 at 8.47.56 AM.png" border="0" alt="Screen Shot 2013 08 23 at 8.47.56 AM" class="alignCenter" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
</div>
<p><b><br> </b></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/311482/Student-Checking-Account-Promotion&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanFri, 23 Aug 2013 13:46:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:311482http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/310624/Top-Three-Benefits-of-Working-with-A-Small-Bank#Comments0Top Three Benefits of Working with A Small Bankhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/310624/Top-Three-Benefits-of-Working-with-A-Small-Bank<p>Minnesota National Bank is a vibrant and growing community bank operating in the Sauk Centre, Long Prairie and Pelican Rapids markets. Like the fatherly advice you may have received once while sitting on the end of a dock, Minnesota National Bank prides itself in getting to know our customers and providing advice to help you make better financial decisions.</p>
<p><img style="margin-right: auto; margin-left: auto; display: block;" id="img-1376923372217" class="alignCenter" border="0" alt="panthermedia 5677555 1748x1165 resized 600" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/panthermedia_5677555_1748x1165-resized-600.jpg" width="267" height="178"></p>
<p>Here are our top reasons why we think working with a small bank is more beneficial.</p>
<p><b>1. &nbsp;&nbsp;</b><b>Employees know you by name</b></p>
<p>When you come into Minnesota National Bank, you will know that we strive to be as involved and informed about our communities as possible. We don’t believe that a successful bank can make it without knowing the people they are serving. It’s extremely important to have a personal relationship. We want to be the bank that you invite to your neighborhood barbeque. &nbsp;</p>
<p><b>2.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </b><b>Small town banks give back to the local community</b></p>
<p>At Minnesota National Bank, giving back to our community is a major priority. We host a variety of community events, are involved in local community organizations, and support numerous community projects. The fortunes of local banks are intimately tied to the fortunes of their local communities. We encourage people to bank with us because their money is helping their local economy grow.&nbsp;<a title="Click here" href="http://www.mn-bank.com/community/" target="_self">Click here</a> to see some pictures and more descriptions of our community involvement.</p>
<p><b>3.&nbsp;&nbsp;&nbsp; </b><b>Small town banks are here to help you at every stage of your life</b></p>
<p>This relates to our first reason, since we know you every step of the way, we will know exactly what you need, depending on what type of person you are. We will grow <em>with </em>you in your endeavors and accomplishments. We will be professionals in whatever caters to your needs. We can help you from every aspect of your life, whether it is a beginning student with questions about finances or to retirement, and every step in between!&nbsp;</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/310624/Top-Three-Benefits-of-Working-with-A-Small-Bank&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanMon, 19 Aug 2013 14:41:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:310624http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/304056/Summer-Festivals-in-Sauk-Centre-Pelican-Rapids-and-Long-Prairie#Comments0Summer Festivals in Sauk Centre, Pelican Rapids, and Long Prairiehttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/304056/Summer-Festivals-in-Sauk-Centre-Pelican-Rapids-and-Long-Prairie<p>One bank. Three towns. Minnesota National Bank knows how to do <em>community. </em></p>
<p>Summer is the ultimate season for outdoor activities and events. There is so much to do and people should be taking full advantage of the beautiful weather and community events.</p>
<p>All three towns, Sauk Centre, <span>Pelican Rapids,</span>&nbsp;and&nbsp;<span>Long Prairie</span>&nbsp;host citywide festivals/fairs at some point in the summer!</p>
<p>Sauk Centre hosts its 43<sup>rd</sup> Annual <a href="http://sauk.saukcentrechamber.com/events/details/sinclair-lewis-days-2745" title="Sinclair Lewis Days " target="_self">Sinclair Lewis Days </a>on July 14-21 this summer. Each day of the fair has something special planned. Some examples of what you’d find include music, fireworks, parades, ice cream socials, craft fairs, street dances, car shows, and a River Bats water ski show! This isn’t even half. &nbsp;There are tons of activities for all ages.</p>
<p><img id="img-1373660299214" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/849.jpg" border="0" alt="849"></p>
<p>Pelican Rapids hosts its <a href="http://www.pelicanrapidschamber.com/images/Events/PelicanFest2013.pdf" title="Pelican Fest" target="_self">Pelican Fest</a> for two days this summer, July 12<sup>th</sup> and 13<sup>th</sup>. It has formerly been called “Turkey Days”. This event is also great for all ages, with activities such as a parade, turkey BBQ, beer garden, helicopter ride, ice cream social, and of course, a turkey race.&nbsp;</p>
<p><img id="img-1373660086092" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/Screen Shot 2013-07-12 at 3.13.11 PM.png" border="0" alt="Screen Shot 2013 07 12 at 3.13.11 PM" width="353" height="112"></p>
<p>Last but not least, Long Prairie will host the <a href="http://www.toddcountyfair.com/home.html" title="Todd City Fair" target="_self">Todd City Fair</a> on August 14<sup>th</sup>-18<sup>th</sup>.&nbsp; Join in the fun! There will be food stands, carnival rides, animals, bike shows, games, music, and more.</p>
<p><br><img id="img-1373660140361" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/Screen Shot 2013-07-12 at 3.13.34 PM.png" border="0" alt="describe the image" width="310" height="154"></p>
<p>All three fairs are more than one day long, so there is no excuse to miss, you can bet our staff will be in attendance!&nbsp;</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/304056/Summer-Festivals-in-Sauk-Centre-Pelican-Rapids-and-Long-Prairie&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanFri, 12 Jul 2013 20:12:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:304056http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/300882/Summer-is-A-Time-of-Spending#Comments0Summer is A Time of Spendinghttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/300882/Summer-is-A-Time-of-Spending<p>Family vacations, summer camps, higher food bills, updating wardrobes and high electric bills can do some damage on your account but it doesn’t have to!</p>
<p>The beautiful weather puts all of us Minnesotans in a great mood and it’s when we want all of those fun outdoor toys. We wanted to create a blog post dedicated to suggesting money saving tips for the summer season. Because we are community focused business, and we want the best for everyone that banks with us and to be able to keep more but still get just as much. It’s hard for families to keep everyone happy but still stay within budget.</p>
<p><img id="img-1372262910424" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/1205776_97444278.jpg" border="0" alt="describe the image" width="165" height="247" class="alignCenter"></p>
<p><strong>Everyday Tips</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Cook outside. Using the stove or baking in the oven can create a lot of excess heat that has nowhere to go except in your house.</li>
<li>Dry your laundry outside if able.</li>
<li>Replace air conditioner filters or better yet, turn it off, especially if you aren’t home.</li>
<li>Avoid using your car when possible, you’ll save gas and burn some calories in the process.</li>
</ul>
<p><strong>Family Activities</strong></p>
<ul>
<li>Take the kids out to a national park and enjoy the nature with a picnic, way cheaper than seeing a movie!</li>
<li>If on vacation, always check if kids eat and stay for free, as many brand name hotels are in on the great deal.</li>
<li>Check out what’s going on for free in your city, there is sure to be free concerts, parades or festivals.</li>
<li>If visiting theme parks is on your horizon, search the Internet for online coupons or deals before committing, there is bound to be promotions online.&nbsp; Also, look for bundle packages if available!</li>
</ul>
<p>Something that is really important is to plan your spending ahead of time! Decide what is a priority as far as what you and your family wants to do in the summer. <a href=" http://www.mn-bank.com/personal/" title="Feel free to contact us if you need some help budgeting." target="_self">Feel free to contact us if you need some help budgeting.</a></p>
<p>How we are an active part of our communities:&nbsp;<a title="http://www.mn-bank.com/community" target="_self">http://www.mn-bank.com/community</a></p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/300882/Summer-is-A-Time-of-Spending&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanWed, 26 Jun 2013 15:51:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:300882http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/295778/MN-National-Bank-Community-Shred-Days-and-Open-Houses#Comments0MN National Bank Community Shred Days and Open Houseshttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/295778/MN-National-Bank-Community-Shred-Days-and-Open-Houses<p>Come one, come all!</p>
<p>At MN National Bank, customer service is huge. We like to show our customers we care which is why we are having a “Customer Appreciation Open House” at all three locations! It’s a great opportunity to meet our staff and hang out with others in your community. The events are also in support of our farmers and businesses! All of the events will have a secure document shredding company coming. It’s a way to show how much we appreciate all of our customers and make sure that their identities are safe too!</p>
<p>The following events include:</p>
<ul>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/370907783015144/" title="Sauk Centre Open House" target="_self">Sauk Centre Open House</a>- Friday June 14, 11 am-2 pm, with turkey/pork sandwiches, ice cream and all you can drink milk</li>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/586417774725403/" title="Long Prairie Open House" target="_self">Long Prairie Open House</a>- Friday June 21, 11 am- 2pm, with turkey/pork sandwiches, ice cream and all you can drink milk</li>
<li><a href="https://www.facebook.com/events/452523204831707/" title="Pelican Rapids" target="_self">Pelican Rapids</a>- Friday June 21, 11 am- 2pm, with ice cream shakes</li>
</ul>
<p>It’s the least we can do for our customers and we are excited to host an event in which customers are the main focus. We strive to have a friendly atmosphere at our businesses and also have a goal to make sure we have a positive relationship with our community.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/295778/MN-National-Bank-Community-Shred-Days-and-Open-Houses&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanMon, 03 Jun 2013 14:09:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:295778http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/294410/We-Make-It-Easy-to-Open-A-Student-Checking-Account#Comments0We Make It Easy to Open A Student Checking Accounthttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/294410/We-Make-It-Easy-to-Open-A-Student-Checking-Account<P>Graduation season is here and so is the opportunity to open student checking accounts.&nbsp;While it may be the last thing on new graduates’ minds, it is still a crucial step after high school. Handling finances may seem stressful, and even intimidating. At MN National Bank we strive to make it a positive experience for everyone involved. It’s important to build a durable and trustful relationship with the&nbsp;bank&nbsp;you do business with.</P><IMG style="DISPLAY: block; MARGIN-LEFT: auto; MARGIN-RIGHT: auto" id=img-1369746918168 class=alignCenter border=0 alt="9026graduation cap" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/9026graduation_cap.jpg" width=172 height=129>
<P>Creating a student checking account will be beneficial short term and long term. We understand that dealing with finances can be confusing. Even if you’re planning on moving away, banking with people you know and can count on will definitely make your life easier.</P>
<P>Until August 31, 2013 when you open a student checking account, we will&nbsp;deposit $5.00 into your account every month until the end of 2013.&nbsp;The only requirement is you have to apply for a debit card, sign up for e-statements and keep the account in good standing.&nbsp;With our debit cards&nbsp;you can access In-Balance ATMS and Money Pass ATMS surcharge free. We will also give you free checks on your first order!</P>
<P>At MN National Bank, we focus on the quality of service we provide and making the world of banking much less of headache for you. Stop in to Minnesota National Bank today.</P>
<P>&nbsp;</P>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/294410/We-Make-It-Easy-to-Open-A-Student-Checking-Account&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanTue, 28 May 2013 13:15:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:294410http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/282273/Spring-Into-Action#Comments0Spring Into Actionhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/282273/Spring-Into-Action<p>We all know how unpredictable Minnesota weather is, we think it’s safe to say that spring is finally here! For most people, this marks that it is time for that daunting but much needed task: spring cleaning. Though it can be very tiresome, spring cleaning gives you an opportunity to throw open the windows, let some fresh air in, and make your home clean, happy and spacious inside and out again. What most people don’t realize, though, is that spring can also be a great time to tidy up your finances. Spring cleaning your finances is a bit like going to the dentist – we don’t particularly like to do it and should probably do it more often. However, the more regularly you do it, the less chance there is of a painful surprise.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p><img id="img-1365188399731" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/financial-spring-cleaning.jpg" border="0" alt="financial spring cleaning" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>One way to do this is to get rid of clutter. Just as you do around the house, spring is a good time to go through your finances and toss out things that no longer fit your life, such as a cable or magazine subscription. Another way to reduce the clutter is to sweep away those winter bills. If those holiday bills are still haunting you, this is a good time to get rid of them. Some great ways to make some extra money is to plan a garage sale, sell stuff online or even volunteer for overtime at work.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Another great way to spring clean those finances is to begin organizing for next year’s taxes. Create a folder, paper or on your computer, to hold all valuable information including all of the charitable deductions you make throughout the year. The same can be done with your spending. By keeping track of every penny, it will give you some perspective on how much money you can or can’t spend at any given time.</p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<p>Spring time, especially in Minnesota, is a time of renewal and rejuvenation. It is a time to clear out the old and prepare for the year ahead.&nbsp;By spring cleaning your finances, you can weed out finances holding you down, organize your present situation and set yourself up for an easier, more relaxing future. Enjoy your spring everyone!</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/282273/Spring-Into-Action&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanFri, 05 Apr 2013 19:04:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:282273http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/271686/What-Exactly-Is-The-Debt-Ceiling#Comments0What Exactly Is The Debt Ceiling?http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/271686/What-Exactly-Is-The-Debt-Ceiling<p style="text-align: left;" align="center"><span style="text-align: left;">As the presidential election has come and gone, there was constant buzz about the topic of the Fiscal Cliff, the U.S. government’s plan to make changes to our nation’s budget in an attempt to keep this country out of a recession. Now there is a new topic being discussed: The Debt Ceiling. So what exactly is the debt ceiling? Let’s start with the basics.</span></p>
<p>To understand the debt ceiling (also known as the debt limit), one must know that the United States splits financial responsibility between the President and Congress. The President has two jobs when it comes to finances: 1) to collect taxes and 2) spend those taxes to run the government. Though it may seem like the President has complete power, in actuality, the President takes orders from Congress. Congress’ job is to set the tax level and determine how much the government will spend by making a budget. As a result, whatever Congress decides to spend money on is what our taxes are used for.</p>
<p>The Problem: Congress puts more money into the budget than what is collected through taxes, which forces the President to borrow money in order to cover the difference. Because our nation has been in debt for such a long period of time, Congress also has the power to limit how much total debt the United States can have. It’s important to note that the debt ceiling is not a limit on future spending, but about paying bills that have already been incurred. For example, the Government asks a company to repave a highway. However, if the debt ceiling is reached after the work is already done, they do not have the money to pay that company. This shakes trust in the United States, which in turn affects the entire world because large parts of the global economy rely on the American Dollar being stable.</p>
<p>Though it is unclear what the best solution to this financial mess is it seems that Congress will, once again, raise the debt ceiling to avoid panic, something they’ve done dozens of time in the past.</p>
<p><img id="img-1361806668383" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/url.jpeg" border="0" alt="url" style="display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></p>
<p>&nbsp;</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/271686/What-Exactly-Is-The-Debt-Ceiling&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanMon, 25 Feb 2013 15:34:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:271686http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/268379/I-won-an-iPad-Now-what#Comments0I won an iPad! Now what?http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/268379/I-won-an-iPad-Now-what<p>1. Nerf Gun Target. Put on a home movie video. When your wierd cousin appears...he is your target!</p>
<p>2. Virtual Aquarium. Download a fish aquarium video. They are easy to find. Boom. Instant Virtual Aquarium.</p>
<p><a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/cat-game-aquarium/id564490378?mt=8" target="_blank"><img id="img-1360795652864" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/mzl.cruqodgp.480x480-75.jpeg" border="0" alt="mzl.cruqodgp.480x480 75" width="240" height="180" style="height: 180px; width: 240px; display: block; margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"></a></p>
<p>3. Entertain your cat. Cats love aquariums. See above.</p>
<p>4. Karaoke Machine. Download <a href="https://itunes.apple.com/us/app/using-karaoke/id315986222?mt=8" title="USing" target="_blank">USing</a> Karaoke. Download up to 300,000 songs. Go nuts, scare your neighbors.</p>
<p>5. Mood Lighting. The iPad has plenty of apps that will set the mood just right for you, with shifting colors or solid tones. Woo your girlfriend/boyfriend as only an Apple Fanboy/Fangirl can.&nbsp;</p>
<p>6. Fireplace. Yes, of course. There is an iPad app that simulates a fireplace. Now you don't have to wait for the holidays to watch a fireplace on television!</p>
<p>7. We heard one guy even used it to surf the web!</p>
<p>So, there you go. Enter our <a href="http://www.facebook.com/MinnesotaNationalBank?sk=app_342579195819956" title="contest" target="_blank">contest</a>&nbsp;and enter to win an iPad. Your cat will thank you.</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/268379/I-won-an-iPad-Now-what&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanWed, 13 Feb 2013 21:41:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:268379http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/265790/5-Reasons-it-Could-be-the-Opportunity-of-a-Lifetime-to-Buy-a-House#Comments05 Reasons it Could be the Opportunity of a Lifetime to Buy a Househttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/265790/5-Reasons-it-Could-be-the-Opportunity-of-a-Lifetime-to-Buy-a-House<p>I recently read an <a href="http://business.time.com/2012/09/18/five-reasons-why-it-could-be-the-opportunity-of-a-lifetime-to-buy-a-house/#ixzz2JwtvVYKq" rel="nofollow" title="article in Time magazine" target="_blank">article in Time magazine</a> that talked about how this could be the “opportunity of a lifetime” to buy a house. As many of you are aware, the recent recession had a great impact on real estate, which on average lost a third of its value. However it appears that home values are going back up.</p>
<img id="img-1360001393096" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/panthermedia_5598807_3508x2339-resized-600.jpg" border="0" alt="Minnesota National Bank home loans" width="300" height="200" class="alignRight" style="border-style: initial; border-color: initial; height: 200px; width: 300px; float: right; border-width: 0px;">
<p>If you are <a href="http://www.mn-bank.com/personal/home-lending/" title="interested in buying a home" target="_blank">interested in buying a home</a> and expect to stay in it for at least a decade, there are several reason why the current housing market offers an exceptional opportunity. Consider these five factors:</p>
<p><b>1. Buying a home right now is cheaper than renting.</b> Home prices and rental rates have risen, but rents are up more. <span>Mortgage loan rates&nbsp;are at their lowest levels</span> in more than 50 years. And given current prices and tax benefits, <span>owning a home is cheaper than renting in almost every major U.S. housing market.</span></p>
<p><b>2. The mortgage interest deduction is unlikely to be eliminated.</b> Tax reform proponents often call for curtailing the income tax deduction for mortgage interest, however the broad popularity of the deduction among homeowners greatly limits the extent to which the deduction can be modified. At most, <span>the cap on the amount that can be deducted may be lowered,</span> but probably not enough to affect middle-class homebuyers.</p>
<p><b>3. Home prices are very cheap but appear to be past a bottom.</b> On a national basis, <span>home prices are down more than 30%</span>&nbsp;from their 2007 peak. Since the recession ended prices have recovered only a bit – but they aren’t getting any worse.</p>
<p><b>4. Eventual economic recovery will almost certainly boost housing prices.</b> Following the recessions of 1973-75 and 1981-82, <span>home prices rose by about 20%</span> in real terms (i.e., not counting price increases from inflation) within seven years or less.&nbsp;The drop in home prices in the most recent recession was at least four times as large as the declines in those two previous recessions. As a result, the recovery is taking longer to get going, but the eventual rebound could be proportionately greater. Price increases resulting from inflation would be on top of those real gains.</p>
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<p><b>5. A substantial amount of inflation seems likely at some point.</b> Since 2008, Fed policies aimed at revving up the economy have more than <span>tripled the basic money supply</span> (including currency but excluding checking and savings accounts).&nbsp;In a simplistic sense, that means the potential exists for the dollar to lose up to two-thirds of its value. To prevent that, the Fed would have to drain much of money that it has added over the past three years. And that would be difficult to do quickly, because it would risk jacking up interest rates to a level high enough to cause another recession.</p>
<p><b>In short, since owning a home is typically cheaper than renting after tax benefits are considered, homebuyers would come out ahead as prices begin to rise as expected.</b></p>
<p><b>Get pre-qualified!</b></p>
<p>If you are interested in taking advantage of the market and buying a home, <a href="http://www.mn-bank.com/loan-inquiry-request-form/" title="contact Minnesota National Bank" target="_blank">contact Minnesota National Bank</a>. Our mortgage experts will help you determine how much you qualify for and what type of mortgage may fit you best. Or <a href="http://www.mn-bank.com/sign-up-for-minnesota-national-bank-rate-watch/" title="sign up for our rate watch" target="_blank">sign up for our rate watch</a>&nbsp;so you can monitor changes in mortgage rates.&nbsp;</p>
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<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/265790/5-Reasons-it-Could-be-the-Opportunity-of-a-Lifetime-to-Buy-a-House&bvt=rss">Mike TraegerMon, 04 Feb 2013 18:02:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:265790http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/259625/Watching-Always-Watching#Comments0Watching. Always. Watching.http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/259625/Watching-Always-Watching<P>We watch. Then we share.&nbsp;</P>
<P>We are in the business of helping our customers successfully manage their finances. One of the tools we provide our customers is <A title="Rate Watch" href="http://www.mn-bank.com/sign-up-for-minnesota-national-bank-rate-watch/" target=_blank>Rate Watch</A>.&nbsp;</P>
<P><IMG style="WIDTH: 145px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 145px" id=img-1358365322691 class=alignRight border=0 alt="Rate Watch, Interest Rates" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/mh900389286.jpeg" width=145 height=145><BR>We keep an eye on interest rates so that you don’t have to. When you sign up for this FREE service we will email you when interest rates reach your goal or if you prefer, we’ll email current rate information on a regular basis.<BR>We will monitor Interest rates on the following financial products:&nbsp;</P>
<UL>
<LI>Savings</LI>
<LI>Certificates of Deposit</LI>
<LI>Mortgage Loans</LI>
<LI>Consumer Loans&nbsp;</LI>
<LI>Agriculture Loans</LI>
<LI>Business Loans</LI></UL>We are a community bank. We want to get to know our customers and provide valuable advice in order to help you make the best financial decisions.<BR><BR>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/259625/Watching-Always-Watching&bvt=rss">Luke RiordanWed, 16 Jan 2013 19:11:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:259625http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/245197/Shop-Small-Saturday-Nov-24th#Comments0Shop Small - Saturday, Nov 24thhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/245197/Shop-Small-Saturday-Nov-24th<h1 class="govd_header" style="padding-bottom: 10px; line-height: 25px; color: #516395; font-size: 24px; padding-top: 10px;">Shop Small on Saturday, November 24th</h1>
<p class="gd_p" style="font: 14px/18px 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; color: #0a1a1f; padding: 5px;"><span>By Karen Mills, SBA Administrator</span></p>
<p class="gd_p" style="font: 14px/18px 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; color: #0a1a1f; padding: 5px;"><span>In between the Black Friday sales and the Cyber Monday deals is Small Business Saturday (November 24th) – a day set aside to support the small businesses that play a vital role in creating jobs and economic opportunities all across the country. </span><span>Last year, Small Business Saturday gave a boost to many of these Main Street businesses, with more than 100 million Americans shopping at independently-owned small businesses. And this year we can do even better! </span></p>
<p class="gd_p" style="font: 14px/18px 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; color: #0a1a1f; padding: 5px;"><span>So what can you do to participate? </span></p>
<ul>
<li><span>If you are a business owner, register your business at <a href="http://www.sba.gov/leaving-sba-dot-gov?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shopsmall.com%2F">www.shopsmall.com</a> so your customers know where to find you and you can receive free Small Business Saturday promotional materials. You can also make sure you’re prepared for the holiday season by checking out SBA’s advice at <a href="http://www.sba.gov/saturday">www.sba.gov/saturday</a>. </span></li>
<li><span>If you are a customer, learn which businesses in your community are participating in Small Business Saturday at <a href="http://www.sba.gov/leaving-sba-dot-gov?url=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.shopsmall.com%2F">www.shopsmall.com</a>. The website provides information on businesses currently registered and how you can rally your community to support the initiative. </span></li>
</ul>
<p class="gd_p" style="font: 14px/18px 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; color: #0a1a1f; padding: 5px;"><span>Small businesses are the back bone of our communities. And when we shop small, we not only get great products and services, but we support our neighbors and strengthen our local economies. Over the last two decades, small and new businesses have been responsible for creating two out of every three net new jobs in the U.S., and today over half of all working Americans own or work for a small business. </span></p>
<p class="gd_p" style="font: 14px/18px 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; color: #0a1a1f; padding: 5px;"><span>By shopping small, we can help America’s small businesses do what they do best: grow their businesses, create good jobs, and ensure that our communities are vibrant. </span></p>
<p class="gd_p" style="font: 14px/18px 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; color: #0a1a1f; padding: 5px;"><span>I encourage you to join small business owners and the more than one hundred million people who were part of Small Business Saturday last year. </span></p>
<p class="gd_p" style="font: 14px/18px 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; color: #0a1a1f; padding: 5px;"><span>Shop small this holiday season. I know I will.</span></p>
<p class="gd_p" style="font: 14px/18px 'Helvetica Neue', Arial, Helvetica, sans-serif; margin-bottom: 1em; color: #0a1a1f; padding: 5px;">Date: 10/9/2011 Author Information: Karen Mills, SBA Administrator</p>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/245197/Shop-Small-Saturday-Nov-24th&bvt=rss">Mike TraegerTue, 20 Nov 2012 13:16:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:245197http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/243042/Go-Local-this-holiday-season#Comments0Go Local this holiday season!http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/243042/Go-Local-this-holiday-season<IMG style="WIDTH: 425px; DISPLAY: block; HEIGHT: 157px; MARGIN-LEFT: auto; MARGIN-RIGHT: auto" id=img-1352822726032 border=0 alt="H Website MNB Minnesota National Bank Facebook Shop local holidays" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/H--Website - MNB-Minnesota National Bank-Facebook - Shop local holidays.jpg" width=424 height=157>Small businesses in our local communities are the life-blood to our local economies.&nbsp; Minnesota National Bank, along with ICBA, is encouraging our customers to shop, dine and bank locally, especially during this holiday season.&nbsp; Click here to learn more.... <A href="http://banklocal.wordpress.com/2012/11/02/go-local-this-holiday-season/">http://banklocal.wordpress.com/2012/11/02/go-local-this-holiday-season/</A>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/243042/Go-Local-this-holiday-season&bvt=rss">Mike TraegerTue, 13 Nov 2012 16:06:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:243042http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/237398/Congratulations-to-Mary-Kerfeld-and-Michelle-Kortan#Comments0Congratulations to Mary Kerfeld and Michelle Kortanhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/237398/Congratulations-to-Mary-Kerfeld-and-Michelle-KortanMary Kerfeld, Michelle Kortan Earn AAP Designations
<P>The Accredited ACH Professional (AAP) designation is obtained by passing a nationally administered exam given annually in October.</P>
<P>The AAP exam covers a wide range of Automated Clearing House (ACH) information including; knowledge of the ACH network and comparative payment systems; knowledge of ACH rules and regulations; technical ACH skills, including operational requirements; understanding of ACH products and applications; risk management and other policy issues; marketing ACH services; management of electronic payment services; Regulation E and other federal requirements.</P>
<P>Mary Kerfeld serves as an Accounting and Remote Deposit Specialist in our Long Prairie office and Michelle Kortan serves as Senior Accounting in our Sauk Centre office. The AAP designation speaks to their expertise in ACH related issues in banking.</P>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/237398/Congratulations-to-Mary-Kerfeld-and-Michelle-Kortan&bvt=rss">Mike TraegerFri, 26 Oct 2012 19:20:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:237398http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/229566/Business-Financial-Tips-Money-Management#Comments0Business Financial Tips - Money Managementhttp://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/229566/Business-Financial-Tips-Money-ManagementA critical part to any businesses success is being able to manage money properly, however not all business owners are financial experts. Therefore, they can sometimes lack the solid financial structure needed to generate consistent revenue and sustain themselves long-term. Here are some basic financial tips to consider if you want to succeed.
<DIV id=section-1 class=section>
<P><IMG style="WIDTH: 300px; FLOAT: right; HEIGHT: 200px" id=img-1349295519731 class=alignRight border=0 alt="business financial tips" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/istock_000003194094medium.jpg" width=300 height=200><STRONG>Set Financial Goals</STRONG></P>
<P>Companies that set financial goals tend to stay on track by defining financial strategies. Goals are beneficial because they tell everyone in the company what to strive for, what to focus on and what the expectations are for success. With everyone on the same page and working together for a unified goal, the chances of success increase. According to Inc., it is important to keep financial goals measurable and realistic. An unrealistic goal defeats the purpose. So where do you want to be in 1-year? 5 years? Set a goal and come up with a plan on how to get there.</P></DIV>
<DIV id=section-2 class=section>
<P><STRONG>Create a Budget</STRONG></P>
<P>Budgeting is important to managing money as it helps keep track of forecasts vs. actual revenue, and helps minimize unnecessary spending. Creating a budget requires a business to itemize all of its expenses and assign each a monetary value. The value that is set is the maximum amount of money that can be spent for the month or year on that product. Once a budget is created, managers and business owners are obligated to stay within the set financial parameters. Spending more money than what is assigned can cause businesses to lose money. Businesses should review their budgets frequently to determine if they are sticking to their financial plan.</P></DIV>
<DIV id=section-3 class=section>
<P><STRONG>Monitor Your Cash Flow</STRONG></P>
<P>Cash flow is one of the quickest ways to get a pulse on how a business is doing. Cash flow statements allow companies to to review their financial position and determine where the they are making the most money (or losing the most money). A cash flow analysis is an important part of operating a successful business because it enables the management team to understand and address any financial concerns as they come up.</P>
<P><STRONG>Find a Financial Partner</STRONG></P>
<P>For any business, having a financial partner you trust, who understands the unique aspects of how your business works, can make a huge difference in your success. Minnesota National Bank has a team of financial experts that have been serving businesses within the Greater Central Minnesota area (including Sauk Centre, Long Prairie and Pelican Rapids) for over 100 years. If you need a financial partner, or just want to explore your options, <A title="contact us" href="http://www.mn-bank.com/contact-center/" target=_blank>contact us</A>. We offer a wide range of <A title="financial business services" href="http://www.mn-bank.com/business/" target=_blank>financial business services</A> and we welcome meeting with you and learning how we can help make your business more successful.</P></DIV>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/229566/Business-Financial-Tips-Money-Management&bvt=rss">Mike TraegerWed, 03 Oct 2012 19:46:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:229566http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/222704/Earn-More-on-Your-CD-s#Comments0Earn More on Your CD's!http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/222704/Earn-More-on-Your-CD-s<P><STRONG><IMG style="FLOAT: right" id=img-1348062539295 class=alignRight border=0 alt="describe the image" src="http://www.mn-bank.com/Portals/148312/images/money-coins.jpg" width=212 height=265>Let’s face it, low interest rates are GREAT! – when you have loans.</STRONG>&nbsp; But, what about those who don’t have any loans?&nbsp; If you’re CD investor, then low interest rates are not what you want to hear.&nbsp; So, why do you invest in CD’s?&nbsp; Well, they’re secure, you won’t lose your investment, you can use the interest to supplement your income and you can get your hands on your money if you need it (although penalties can apply). &nbsp;So with all those positives, let’s work on earning you more without jeopardizing your investment.&nbsp; <SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">One way to increase what you earn, is to use a CD ladder.</SPAN></P>
<P><STRONG>A CD ladder is an investment strategy where you buy several</STRONG> CDs that mature over different maturity times. By using a CD ladder, you make sure that money is available periodically, and increase the yield on your overall CD’s.&nbsp; You’ve always heard the saying, “don’t put all your eggs in one basket”, so why treat your CD’s the same way?</P>
<P>For example, if you invest $100,000 in a 12 month CD earning 0.85%, your yield is just that, 0.85%.&nbsp; If you ladder your CD’s and split your money into 5 chunks and invest $20,000 for 1 year, 2 years, 3 years, 4 years and 5 years you can take advantage of the higher yields that the longer term&nbsp; CD’s offer, yet still have money available each year that you can reinvest or use the cash as you need.</P>
<P>In our example, let’s say the 1 year CD earns 0.85%; 2 year CD earns 1.25%; 3 year CD earns 1.50%; 4 year CD earns 1.75% and 5 year CD earns 2.00%.&nbsp; The average yield on your $100,000 investment jumps to 1.47%.&nbsp;<SPAN style="COLOR: #ff0000"> <EM><STRONG><SPAN style="TEXT-DECORATION: underline">That’s a 73% increase in the yield</SPAN></STRONG></EM></SPAN> versus investing everything in the 1 year CD at 0.85%.&nbsp; Then, when money comes due, invest it back in the 5 year CD and the process will continue to earn you higher yields.</P>
<P>Set up your CD ladder with your CD’s spread out by 1 year or maybe try a 6 month gap between them.&nbsp; In either way, you’ll increase what you earn on your CD’s.&nbsp; Now, this strategy only works if you stay committed over time and as interest rates rise, you’ll get to reinvest in those higher rates each year.&nbsp; It’s a proven strategy that will make those low rates not seem quite so low.</P>
<P><EM>Rates in this article are for illustrative purposes only.&nbsp; For actual rates available today, please contact a Personal Banker.&nbsp; Actual results may vary.&nbsp; If you would like us to watch rates for you, please <A title="sign up for our Rate Watch " href="http://www.mn-bank.com/sign-up-for-minnesota-national-bank-rate-watch/" target=_self>sign up for our Rate Watch </A>program!</EM></P>
<img src="http://track.hubspot.com/__ptq.gif?a=148312&k=14&bu=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/&r=http://www.mn-bank.com/mnb-news/bid/222704/Earn-More-on-Your-CD-s&bvt=rss">Mike TraegerWed, 19 Sep 2012 13:47:00 GMTf1397696-738c-4295-afcd-943feb885714:222704